First weekly data report posted for 2019/20 influenza season

CALGARY – Alberta Health Services (AHS) today posted the first weekly data update for the 2019/20 provincial influenza season online at ahs.ca/influenza

Data categories featured in the weekly update include immunizations administered, lab-confirmed influenza cases, and hospitalizations and deaths in individuals with lab-confirmed influenza. The update is provided to ensure transparency as the 2019/20 influenza season evolves.

Going forward, the data set included in each report will be updated weekly each Thursday through March 2020 to provide a snapshot of influenza virus activity.

“It's important to remember the influenza disease data we capture in our weekly updates is considered a mere fraction of the influenza activity that is actually impacting our friends, loved ones and neighbours,” says Dr. Jia Hu, AHS Medical Officer of Health.

“Not all cases of influenza are lab-confirmed and not all cases require hospitalization. However, by consistently sharing the influenza disease information that we do capture, we are still ensuring Albertans understand the stark reality of influenza.

“Calgary Zone in particular is seeing a big increase of influenza cases. What is important to emphasize is that influenza is here, it is serious and already sending people to the hospital. The message we must all take away is simple: get immunized. This will protect yourself, your family and our communities.”

Influenza immunization is currently available, free of charge, to all Albertans six months of age and older.

For more information about influenza, the ongoing influenza immunization program (including clinic dates, times and locations), and to access the weekly data update, visit ahs.ca/influenza

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.